Cody Bellinger Eyes Possible Reunion With Dodgers Amid Corner Outfield Needs

The Los Angeles Dodgers are no strangers to big-name acquisitions, but a potential reunion with one of their own could be just the move to solidify their roster heading into the 2026 season. According to Jon Heyman of the New York Post, the Dodgers have expressed interest in bringing back outfielder Cody Bellinger, a player who has not only left a mark on the franchise but could also address a pressing corner outfield need.

Bellinger, now 30 years old, made his Major League debut with Los Angeles in 2017, immediately establishing himself as one of the game’s brightest young stars. In his rookie season, Bellinger hit 39 home runs, posted a .933 OPS, and generated a 4.0 WAR (Wins Above Replacement), earning both National League Rookie of the Year honors and MVP considerations. Two years later, in 2019, he arguably had the best season of his career, winning the NL MVP with 47 home runs, 115 RBIs, a 1.035 OPS, and an 8.7 WAR. These early years cemented his status as one of baseball’s premier talents, while also giving Dodgers fans memories of a homegrown superstar at the height of his powers.

However, Bellinger’s journey has not been without challenges. Between 2020 and 2022, he struggled offensively, marking a down period that saw his production dip significantly from his MVP form. After the 2022 season, Bellinger signed a one-year contract with the Chicago Cubs, looking to reset his career. Following a successful 2023 campaign, he secured a three-year deal with Chicago, only to be traded to the Yankees after the 2024 season. After the 2025 campaign, Bellinger opted out of the remaining years of that contract, making him a free agent and opening the door to a return to the Dodgers.

Addressing the Corner Outfield Gap

Los Angeles has one clear need entering the offseason: improving the corner outfield. While Teoscar Hernandez is expected to occupy a corner spot, his defensive limitations make him a better fit at designated hitter. Center fielder Andy Pages remains an important piece of the roster but is best suited to the middle of the outfield. A player like Bellinger, capable of covering all three outfield positions, offers flexibility that could help the Dodgers balance both offense and defense.

Bellinger’s ability to play left and right field, and occasionally even first base, adds roster versatility, giving manager Dave Roberts more options when constructing lineups for day-to-day matchups. Defensively, Bellinger has been above average at multiple positions, providing both range and arm strength. Offensively, he remains a consistent contributor, posting a .272 batting average with 29 home runs and an .813 OPS during the 2025 season with the Yankees. These numbers suggest that Bellinger is still capable of contributing at an elite level, particularly in a hitter-friendly ballpark like Dodger Stadium.

Competition for Bellinger

While the Dodgers are reportedly interested, they are not alone. Other teams—including the Yankees, Mets, and San Francisco Giants—have been linked to Bellinger, creating a competitive free-agent market. According to Jack Curry of YES Network, ongoing discussions between the Yankees and Bellinger’s camp have revealed a “gap” in negotiations, leaving the door open for other suitors.

For the Dodgers, familiarity could be a major selling point. Having risen through Los Angeles’ farm system, Bellinger understands the culture and expectations of the organization. Drafted in the fourth round of the 2013 MLB Draft, he quickly developed into one of the team’s marquee players. That connection, combined with his desire to succeed at a high level, could make Los Angeles an attractive landing spot for the outfielder.

Why Bellinger Could Be a Perfect Fit

The Dodgers’ recent back-to-back World Series championships in 2024 and 2025 underscore their commitment to winning now, and Bellinger represents a low-risk, high-reward option to maintain that level of success. His familiarity with the coaching staff, the clubhouse culture, and Dodger Stadium itself gives him an edge over other free-agent options.

Furthermore, his versatility provides strategic benefits. In addition to slotting into a corner outfield role, Bellinger could serve as a platoon option or fill in for injuries without sacrificing defensive integrity. Offensively, he adds depth to an already powerful lineup, complementing stars like Mookie Betts, Freddie Freeman, and Max Muncy. His left-handed power would be particularly valuable in matchups against right-handed pitching, while his ability to get on base consistently increases the lineup’s overall run-production potential.

The Bellinger Factor in the Dodgers’ Future

For a team with championship aspirations, adding Bellinger is not just about filling a positional need—it’s about leadership and experience. Having been part of a World Series-winning team, Bellinger brings invaluable postseason experience and a winning mentality. Younger players in the Dodgers’ system could benefit from his presence, learning how to handle the rigors of a long MLB season and the pressures of high-stakes playoff games.

Moreover, a reunion with Bellinger could have emotional resonance for the fanbase. Los Angeles fans remember his MVP seasons fondly and would likely welcome his return as both a sentimental and strategic move. His story, from top prospect to MVP to free-agent veteran, represents both perseverance and a full-circle narrative that resonates with players and supporters alike.

Looking Ahead

With spring training looming, the Dodgers will need to make swift decisions to address the corner outfield gap. While nothing is official yet, Bellinger’s availability and fit make him a logical choice. The combination of defensive versatility, offensive production, and familiarity with the organization makes a Dodgers reunion compelling for both parties.

If the Dodgers succeed in bringing Bellinger back, it would signal their intention to remain dominant contenders in the National League and reinforce a culture built on winning, development, and homegrown talent. For Bellinger, it would provide an opportunity to return to familiar grounds, in front of a fanbase that knows and cherishes him, while contributing to another potential championship run.

In the coming days, as negotiations unfold, all eyes will be on Los Angeles and Cody Bellinger. A reunion could be imminent—and for Dodgers fans, the possibility of seeing their former MVP back in Dodger blue is both exciting and nostalgic, combining the past glory with the promise of future triumphs.